Not for the Jews Only

There is a school of thought, theologically, that repentance was for the Jews only. The Charles Ryrie Study Bible, for instance, pushes this.

The “logic” behind this belief is that repentance is a work and thus adds to the gospel message. However the Word says “the goodness of God leads you to repentance…”

And as far as repentance being for the Jews only at a certain period of time only, I’d rather take Scripture at Its Word:

“I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus.” Acts 20.21

Here is an observation from a man I greatly respect:

It is important for us to see the close connection between repentance and forgiveness, because while no amount of repentance can ever merit forgiveness in the sight of God, without repentance no soul will ever be saved.  Repentance is the telltale mark of the grace of God at work in our lives. Saving faith and true repentance are always found together. Saved souls are repentant souls.

Kent Hughes

Luke Commentary, p. 109.